IND W vs SL W: India’s Women’s World Cup Quest Begins Against Sri Lanka

As you explore the largest city in North-Eastern India these days, Durga Puja is impossible to miss. The temples and streets are adorned with festive decorations, and the celebration of the divine feminine extends late into the night.

Coinciding perfectly, though unintentionally, with the women’s cricket World Cup, India is set to face Sri Lanka at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Originally, the opening match was scheduled for Bengaluru, but following a tragic stampede after RCB’s IPL victory celebration, all games were relocated from M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

This venue hosts India’s only World Cup match, a ground where it played three T20Is against England in 2019. Only six players from that squad remain, and skipper Harmanpreet wasn’t part of that series due to injury.

Leading her country for the first time in an ODI World Cup, Harmanpreet is undoubtedly keen to secure a winning start, as this tournament arguably offers India its best chance to clinch a World Cup title.

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Harmanpreet is an integral part of a formidable Indian batting lineup, with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana being particularly influential. This year, the left-handed opener has been a significant challenge for bowlers, amassing four ODI centuries so far.

A strong start with her opening partner, Pratika Rawal, could pave the way for Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh. The captain has confirmed all players are fit, so the team expects to showcase their strongest possible bowling attack.

Sri Lanka, the co-host, will rely heavily on their cricket stalwart, Chamari Athapaththu, for inspiration. However, more support from her team is essential against what is likely the second strongest side in the tournament.

Team Squads:

India: Harmanpreet Kaur (Capt.), Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Kranti Goud, Renuka Singh, Arundhati Reddy, Sneh Rana, N. Shree Charani, Uma Chetry.

Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (Capt.), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Piumi Wathsala, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Dasanayaka, Udeshika Prabodani, Malki Madara, Achini Kulasuriya.

Published on Sep 29, 2025